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MADISON, Wis. - The Dane County Sheriff’s Office is conducting new searches for evidence along Highway 14 in the case of a Mazomanie homicide. Cheryl Gilberg was found dead in a Mazomanie home on Feb. 23.

In early March, approximately 25 deputies conducted a foot search along Highway 14 between Mazomanie and Middleton. Deputies are looking for a number of items, including the Charter Arms Pink Lady .38 caliber revolver missing from Gilberg’s home.

They are also looking for a black SUV that may have been driving along Highway 14 between Mazomanie and Middleton on Feb. 23.

Deputies asks that motorists traveling along this stretch of highway be aware of their presence and drive with caution.

Volunteers have contacted the sheriff’s office offering to help in the evidence search, but officials said only sworn officers will be searching because of the sensitive nature of the investigation.

Phillip Byrd, 39, of Janesville, has been elevated from a person of interest and is now being considered the primary suspect. Byrd is still being held in the Rock County jail on charges of bail-jumping and drug possession.

According to a criminal complaint, a prescription amphetamine pill bottle prescribed to Gilberg was found alongside prescriptions belonging to Byrd during the home search.

Officials said more than 100 people have been interviewed as part of the investigation into the death of Gilberg.

Gilberg owned the house, and was the only person living there at the time of the incident.

Gilberg was found by a family member who was checking on her.

Anyone with information related to this investigation can call the Dane County tip line at 608-284-6900.